Ok, that time of year is approaching: the holidays. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza or another gift-giving holiday, you know that maintaining a good budget during this time of year can be a hassle. Prices seem to be rising each year. So how can you please the people on your gift list AND stay within your means? Here are some useful tips to help you get the most for your dollar this holiday season.
1. Search discount stores like Ross, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls for quality items at a fraction of the price. These stores have nice things that you would find at department stores, such as clothing, shoes, home décor, and jewelry, but for much less. You can find something for just about everyone on your gift list. But shop carefully. Many of these items have slight defects that are not detectable to the naked eye. However, some have more obvious flaws. No one wants a new item with a stain, tear or missing part.
2. Sales racks and shelves are your friend. It may be difficult navigating through all the riffraff crowding the sales racks, but it is well worth it when you find a great item at an even better price. Many places are having holiday sales, so take advantage of them and “rack” up!
3. If those shops are too rich for your blood, try dollar stores. Places like Dollar Tree have a wide variety of cute accessories and knick-knacks. While there, you can even pick up miscellaneous holiday supplies such as gift bags, gift wrap, cards, decorations and bows.
4. Step into the age of technology for holiday shopping. Online sites offering low prices for various items such as ebay.com and overstock.com provide both the convenience of at-home shopping, as well as reasonably low prices in their auctions and immediate-purchase merchandise. What’s better than getting your shopping down while sitting down in the comfort of your own home? Be sure to do your research to ensure that you are making legit purchases from reputable sellers.
5. The best gifts come from the heart. If you really want to squeeze every penny, why not try to make your friends and family personalized gifts and cards? This is both an inexpensive and creative way to say “happy holidays.” If cooking is more your thing, you might want to make a special holiday dinner for your loved ones.
6.Nothing is more important during this special time of year than spending time with the people you care about. Time is very valuable, yet costs nothing. Show the people closest to you how special they are by giving them the gift of your time. A phone call or a visit can really make someone’s day, especially if you are not able to see or communicate with that person often.
Keeping the previous tips in mind can help make the holiday season more enjoyable for everyone. The best gift of all is the gift of saving money!